The Resilience of ‘Golden Bachelor’ Runner-Up Leslie Fhima: Embracing Self-Worth Beyond Others’ Opinions
Golden Bachelor runner-up Leslie Fhima embraces her self-worth, asserting that her value is not defined by another's decision Reflecting on her heart-wrenching journey in season 1, Leslie remains resilient in the face of disappointment Discover more about Leslie's empowering mindset in this captivating article
Leslie Fhima ABC/John Fleenor
After being rejected by Gerry Turner, Leslie Fhima, the runner-up of The Golden Bachelor, is looking towards a promising future.
"Grateful for the experience on @goldenbachabc, where I embraced vulnerability and pursued love without fear," Leslie, 64, shared on Instagram on December 1, following the season finale on ABC. "Even though I didn't receive the final rose, my value is not defined by someone else's decision."
In the episode that aired on Thursday, November 30th, 72-year-old Gerry ended his relationship with Leslie to be with Theresa Nist. He proposed to 70-year-old Theresa, and they are scheduled to get married on January 4, 2024, making it the first Golden Bachelor wedding. Despite this, Leslie harbors no ill feelings towards Gerry or Theresa.
"Discovering true happiness comes from embracing self-love and empowerment as a woman. The outpouring of support has been incredibly rewarding," shared Leslie on Friday. "This journey has truly opened my heart and mind, and I eagerly anticipate the next chapter, wherever it may take me. ❤️."
Jesse Palmer and Leslie Fhima. Disney/John Fleenor
The fitness instructor subsequently received a number of supportive comments from her fellow members of Bachelor Nation.
"Your words were truly inspiring last night and I hope you felt the love from all of us Golden Bachelor contestants," commented Joan Vassos, another participant, on Instagram.
Joan, who is 60 years old, and several other former contestants attended the live finale watch party that was aired on Thursday during ABC's broadcast. Leslie responded to Joan, saying, "It was wonderful to have you there, my dear friend ️."
Leslie's emotional farewell on TV, as well as her reunion with Gerry on After the Final Rose, resonated with former Bachelorette Trista Sutter. "I was heartbroken for you, but I appreciate your vulnerability and honesty," Trista, 51, commented on Friday. "I just wish I could have given you a hug instead of just blowing a kiss from the audience. ️."
Gerry Turner and Leslie Fhima. Disney/John Fleenor
At the After the Final Rose special, Leslie confronted Gerry for surprising her with a breakup after professing his love. During the event, the first Golden Bachelor admitted he knew Theresa was The One after their overnight date, which took place after his time alone with Leslie. Later, Gerry confessed on Good Morning America that he sometimes felt like a villain and had no response to Leslie's accusations other than acknowledging that was how he felt at the time.
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Gerry and Theresa are planning to relocate to Charleston, South Carolina, following their marriage in January 2024.
“We might be old, but think about it this way: waiting a year in your 20s might be only 3% of your remaining life,” Gerry mentioned on the "Bachelor Happy Hour" podcast when discussing their quick wedding plans. "But in your 70s, a year could be 10% or 20% of the time you have left."
